They’re considered by many as the greatest class ever inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Led by perennial GOAT, Michael Jordan, the Class of 2009 can be summed up with one phrase—commitment to winning.
Jordan, who captured six NBA titles, five regular-season MVPs, six Finals MVPs, and 10 scoring titles with the Chicago Bulls, was joined by a dizzying array of talent.
“The Admiral” David Robinson, who spent his entire career with the San Antonio Spurs, was a 10-time NBA All-Star and two-time NBA Champion.
Utah Jazz point guard John Stockton also was a 10-time NBA All-Star and leads the NBA in career assists and steals.
Former Utah head coach Jerry Sloan, is one of only four coaches n NBA history with a 15-plus consecutive season winning record.
Rutgers women’s basketball coach C. Vivian Stringer is one of the winningest coaches in women’s basketball history and is the first coach in NCAA history to lead three different women’s programs to the NCAA Final Four.
Jordan, who teared up before starting his speech, credited his family for his competitive nature.
“I’d do anything to win,” said Jordan. “If a team game was needed, I’d do that. If I needed to take over, I’d do that.”
Jordan recalled the time assistant coach Tex Winter told him there was no “I” in team after Jordan scored 25 straight points in a win.
“I told him, Tex, there is “I” in win.”
All the inductees showed their gratitude to the teammates and players who helped them achieve their goals.